When to Go

When to go

When you're talking about a bike trip, the weather really matters. Fortunately, the climate in France is generally mild, spring comes early and winter late, depending on what part of the country you're talking about. In general we prefer to go in late spring, April/May/first part of June, or the fall, September/first part of October.  Yes, it can rain in the spring, and yes it can get cold towards October but we prefer that to the crowds & the heat. We avoid France in the summer, that is July & August because it can be very hot, and also because that is the height of the tourist season and the crowds can astonishing (and annoying). It's also when the French themselves generally take vacation, especially August, when Paris is populated most by tourists, especially Americans.

Advance reservations for lodging on your bike trip are generally a good idea, especially in small towns where they may be only one or two places to stay, and reservation are essential in tourist regions in July & August.